Spend a good half-day on a trip from Tromsø to the Lyngen Mountains (Lyngsalpene) and back again. We can promise alpine beauty, Sami culture and plastic gnomes.
The Lyngen peninsula, with its 1,833 m high peaks, blue glaciers, gushing glacial rivers and deep ravines, is one of Norway’s most dramatic landscapes. Tackling the peaks and glaciers is perhaps best left to the most experienced hikers and climbers, but at both Svensby and in the valleys of Furuflaten there are plenty of opportunities for the less experienced. And a sightseeing tour of Lyngen by car is something we can all enjoy.
Getting from Tromsø to the Lyngen Alps
The route follows the E8 to Fagernes (20 km) and then on along the Rv 91 to the quayside at Breivikeidet where the ferry comes in. From here the impressive mountain range reveals itself in all its glory. The 20-minute ferry trip over to Svensby offers exceptional panoramic views. The quayside cafe sells delicious “lefser”, a kind of potato cake. At the tourist information office at the quayside in Svensby, ask about the path over to Jegervatnet lake. Close by lies Gamslett, a preserved Sea Sami farm from the 1800s.
As short but dramatic drive through the Lyngen Mountains
The trip across the Lyngen peninsula is short, but dramatic. In fair weather you can see Jiekkevarri, at 1,833 m it is the highest peak in Troms County. Lyngseidet is a pretty, well-kept coastal village, with many old houses, shops and cafes. And Lyngen Church, built in 1740, is well worth a visit. The world’s tallest plastic gnome – measuring an impressive 9 m – stands tucked away behind the quayside. Gollis, as he is called, is proof indeed of the locals’ lively sense of humour. The nearby hostelry, Stigen, specialises in dishes using goat’s produce!
Hire a horse on your journey
Heading south from Lyngseidet along the Rv 868 you will see Solhov College (Solhov Folkehøgskole), one of Norway’s largest wooden buildings. It is possible to hire a horse at several places along the fjord; the local breed, of course, a Lyngen pony. At the farm, Bomstad Gård, just before Nordkjosbotn, you can buy locally made goat’s cheese. The traditional inn, Vollan Gjestestue, is the place for local food, with horsemeat being among the kitchen’s specialties. The return journey to Tromsø goes quickly on the modern E8 road high over Balsfjord.
Detours
- From Svensby we recommend the detour to the Northern Tip of peninsula, Lyngstuva, passing through the fishing village of Nord-Lenangen.
- From Lyngseidet there is a short detour to the tiny settlement of Koppangen, offering views to glaciers and peaks from new angles.